When it comes to automotive lighting, choosing the right bulb can make a significant difference in visibility, energy efficiency, and overall driving experience. The 194 and 168 bulbs are popular choices for various applications, from dashboard lights to license plate illumination. This side-by-side comparison explores their design, brightness, power consumption, and uses, while highlighting the benefits of upgrading to LED alternatives for enhanced performance and longevity. 
1. Design and Physical Appearance
Both 194 and 168 bulbs have a T10 wedge base, making them compatible with many of the same sockets. They are small, compact, and designed for applications where size is a constraint, such as dashboard lighting, interior dome lights, and license plate lights.
However, despite their similar size and base, the two bulbs differ in performance, particularly in brightness and energy consumption.
2. Brightness and Light Output
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194 Bulb Brightness: The 194 bulb emits around 3.8 lumens, making it suitable for low-intensity applications like dashboard lights or side marker lamps.
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168 Bulb Brightness: On the other hand, the 168 bulb is brighter, producing around 4.9 lumens, which makes it ideal for applications where brighter illumination is needed, such as map lights or license plate lights.
3. Power Consumption
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194 Bulb Power Consumption:The 194 bulbs typically uses 3.8 watts, making it a more energy-efficient choice for long-term usage.
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168 Bulb Power Consumption: The 168 bulbs consume 4.9 watts, offering higher brightness but at the expense of slightly more energy.
For drivers who want to conserve battery power, especially when the engine is off, the 194 bulbs may be a better choice.
4. Applications and uses
Both bulbs are highly versatile and used in various automotive applications:
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194 Bulb Uses: Instrument panels, side marker lights, license plate lights, and courtesy lights.
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168 Bulb Uses: Dome lights, map lights, glove compartment lights, and brighter license plate lights.
Your choice will largely depend on where you need the bulb and how much brightness you require.
LED Alternatives: Why Upgrade?
LED technology has revolutionized automotive lighting. Both 194 and 168 bulbs have LED alternatives, offering enhanced performance, longevity, and efficiency. Here’s why you should consider upgrading to LED:
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Energy Efficiency: LED bulbs consume significantly less power compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
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Brightness: LED versions of 194 and 168 bulbs are far brighter, providing clear visibility without excessive power draw.
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Lifespan: LEDs last up to 50,000 hours, far surpassing the lifespan of incandescent bulbs.
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Color Options: LED bulbs come in a variety of colors, making them perfect for customizing your car’s interior ambiance.
For example, a 194 LED light bulb is an excellent choice for dashboard and dome lighting, while a 168 LED bulb can provide brighter illumination for map lights or license plate lighting.
Socket Compatibility
One of the main advantages of 194 and 168 bulbs is their T10 wedge base, which fits into the same sockets. This means you can interchange them depending on your brightness and energy needs. However, if upgrading to LED alternatives, ensure the LED bulb also has a T10 base to maintain compatibility.
Bulb Lifespan
The lifespan of 194 and 168 bulbs depends on the type of technology used:
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Incandescent Bulbs: Traditional 194 and 168 bulbs typically last 1,000 to 2,000 hours.
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LED Bulbs: LED versions of these bulbs can last up to 50,000 hours, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Upgrading to LED not only reduces replacement frequency but also minimizes the hassle of swapping bulbs frequently.
Interior Lighting Upgrade: Enhancing Your Driving Experience
Upgrading your car’s interior lighting with 194 or 168 bulbs can significantly improve visibility and add a modern touch to your vehicle’s design. Some popular upgrades include:
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Dashboard Lights: Use 194 LED bulbs for clear and vibrant instrument panel lighting.
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Dome and Map Lights: Install 168 LED bulbs for brighter, focused light when reading or finding items in your car.
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Accent Lighting: LED bulbs come in various colors, allowing you to customize your car's interior to match your style.
When upgrading, consider LED alternatives for energy efficiency, longevity, and versatility.
Which Bulb Should You Choose?
Choosing between 194 and 168 bulbs comes down to your specific needs:
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Choose 194 Bulbs: If you want lower brightness and energy consumption for applications like dashboard lights or courtesy lights.
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Choose 168 Bulbs: If you need brighter light output for dome lights, map lights, or license plate lighting.
For a comprehensive upgrade, consider using LED versions of both bulbs to enjoy the best of brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity.
How to Replace 194 or 168 Bulbs
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Turn Off Your Car:To prevent electrical shorts, make sure the car's electrical system is off.
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Locate the Bulb Socket: Identify the bulb you want to replace (e.g., dome light, dashboard light, or license plate light).
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Remove the Old Bulb: Gently twist and pull the old bulb out of the socket.
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Insert the New Bulb: Push the new bulb (or LED alternative) into the socket until it clicks.
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Test the Bulb: Turn on your car's electrical system to ensure the bulb is working correctly.
Underground Lighting: Your Trusted Source for Quality Bulbs
At Underground Lighting, we understand the importance of high-quality lighting for your vehicle. Whether you're looking for 194 vs. 168 bulbs, 194 LED light bulbs, or solutions for car interior lighting upgrades, we have you covered. Our extensive collection includes both incandescent and LED bulbs, offering options that suit every need and budget.
With Underground Lighting, you can trust that you’re getting reliable, durable, and efficient products to enhance your driving experience.
Upgrade Your Lighting Today with Underground Lighting
Are you prepared to enhance the lighting in your car? Whether you’re upgrading your dashboard lights, enhancing your interior ambiance, or seeking brighter license plate illumination, Underground Lighting has the perfect bulb for you. Explore our collection of 194 and 168 bulbs, including LED alternatives, and enjoy the perfect balance of brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity.
Shop Now at Underground Lighting and transform your driving experience with premium lighting solutions!
